17 Calligraphic works

Arabic calligraphy turns a phrase into an artwork by exploiting the expressive potential inherent in its forms.

Arabic calligraphy turns a phrase into an artwork by exploiting the expressive potential inherent in its forms. I choose the phrases that I use in my work based on their eloquence and their meaning. My sources range from ancient and modern poetry and prose to philosophy, Sufi teachings and holy books. I search for texts that inspire, uplift and invite questions about humanity. After choosing the phrase, I practice in pencil, which allows me to reach the basic composition of the work. I then rewrite the phrase with a calligraphy pen, first adjusting each individual letter, then each word, then whole sentences. After I reach something that satisfies me structurally and visually, I enlarge the composition on paper, rearranging the diacritics in a way that adds visual rhythm to the work. At last, I execute the final version, resulting in a work that represents a contemporary evolution of a traditional, ancestral art form. 2013 This project was part of Sharjah Biennial 11